Bicyclists and drivers share the same roads and must obey the same traffic laws. There are major differences between the vehicles, however, and obviously, bikers are far more vulnerable. Also, cyclists have to balance to ride, can't stop as quickly as cars and are affected more by potholes, gravel, railroad crossings, oil and other vehicles. These conditions force sudden and unpredictable moves.

For these reasons, it's important to always approach cyclists carefully. To be safe, slow down and don't attempt to pass until there's plenty of room to do so safely. Move well to the left if you need to pass, or wait for the cyclist to yield if necessary. Here are five guidelines for safe driving around cyclists:

1. Drive cautiously

Always slow down when you encounter cyclists

In inclement weather, give cyclists extra trailing and passing room

Recognize situations that may be dangerous to cyclists and give them space

It's difficult to judge cyclists' speed (almost always, they're traveling much faster than they appear) so don't turn or pull out in front of them

2. Yield

Cyclists are considered vehicles and should be given the appropriate right of way

Don't overtake cyclists and turn right across their path at the last moment; slow down, wait for them to pass through the intersection and then turn right